“He made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.” Ephesians 1:9-10 NIV
https://www.bible.com/bible/111/eph.1.9-10.niv
In Chapter 1 of Ephesians, Paul is speaking to the people of Ephesus, the newfound Christian believers in Jesus Christ. Paul is reminding them that they are a chosen people predestined to accomplish good works for God!
As Paul shared this message over 2000 years ago with the people of Ephesus, this same message is prevalent for today’s Christian. As I was reading verse 9 & 10, God gave me a fresh perspective that I had not thought before. What caught my attention was the phrase, “to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment.”
My first thought was that God is a God of timing! Whatever God plans to accomplish, it brings all things and people into fulfillment. God’s plan does not just touch one individual but many.
My second thought was, “What am I trying to accomplish alone?” “What am I trying to make happen but God is saying, “Not yet?” MY plan has not reached fulfillment! So, how is your current situation causing you to become anxious and make moves God did not design for you to make?
“All the believers were together and had everything in common. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:44, 46-47 NIV
https://www.bible.com/bible/111/act.2.44,46-47.niv
God added to the believers’ daily- unity! God caused the multitude- increase! God bestowed the people with favor – fulfillment!
Let’s look at what fulfillment means – achievement, completion, realization (dictionary.com).
This tells me that when God has decided that the “time has come” according to His Will, fulfillment of His plan in your life will happen. And, when this happens “unity” between earthly and heavenly realms will also take place.
So, whatever you are discouraged about job, spouse, child, relationship, finances, health, loss, betrayal, or anything know that in God’s timing ALL things will come under His fulfillment for the good of God.
“Your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Matthew 6:32-33 NIV https://www.bible.com/bible/111/mat.6.32-33.niv
Jesus Christ came into this world at the proper time to redeem every living soul. He was predestined for this task just as you and I are predestined for our task. And, what you are purposed to do will come to fruition as long as you trust, believe, and let God lead.
My friend, remember that when God plans to transform your life, it will not only be at the right time but also change the lives of others invoking unity and oneness.
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me?” John 17:20-21 NIV
https://www.bible.com/bible/111/jhn.17.20-21.niv
Be Blessed in Jesus Christ name, Amen! ~